Feminist post-structural analysis of obesity management: A relational experience

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the experiences of overweight and obese individuals and nurses, physicians and dieticians who cared for them in the assessment and management of obesity. Methods: Design and Methods: A feminist post-structural methodology and semi structured face to face interviews were used to examine personal, social and institutional aspects of obesity management. Setting: Rural and urban settings across a province in eastern Canada. Sample: Participants included 22 clients living with obesity and 16 health care professionals (nurses, physicians and dieticians). Results: Marginalization, oppression, bias and stigma continued to affect obesity management. Participants discussed the importance of supportive relationships between clients and health care providers. Conclusions: Individuals living with obesity require greater levels and duration of support, given the multiple barriers they face at the individual, social and institutional levels. Implications: Health care professionals need to understand the social construction and relational context of obesity in order to minimize stigma and enhance the provision of supportive and non-judgmental care.